Despite a difficult rookie NBA season with Houston, the 22-year-old's experience of playing alongside the likes of James Harden and Chris Paul proved invaluable as he put the disappointment of the 2014 Asiad behind him.

From the first tip-off, Zhou was in the zone－winning his personal duel with Jordan Clarkson of the Cleveland Cavaliers in China's opener against the Philippines.

Zhou showed true mettle, with his 25 points, 12 rebounds and seven blocks helping his team to an 82-80 victory.

"Under the eyes of billions of people, there is no doubt huge pressure," said Zhou. "For me, I just want to use my experience and advantages to help the team to have the best result. After a year in the NBA, I'm getting used to it.

"Of course, there are changes in my mentality. I'm more mature in terms of skills and the understanding of tactics."

Yao is well aware that greater tests await his master plan at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup and 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

"After the Asian Games, we will evaluate the two teams," said Yao. "In Tokyo, the minimum expectation is to advance beyond the group stage and win at least one game after that.

"We have to prepare fully to make our team much stronger. Also, we have to pay attention to the development of the world's other strong teams and study them."

After silver four years ago, the Chinese women's five-aside squad also returned to the top of the podium, having last been champions in 2010.

"The women's team now is now very united," said Yao. "To prepare for the 2020 Olympics, we also have a lot fresh blood in our team.

"Now, the physical and mental condition of the women's team is great, which is also the result of the efforts of the coaching team."